ABSTRACT
In this chapter, we examine how technology affects fire services and their ability to manage critical incidents when necessary. The men and women working in fire departments have a very difficult job and are faced with a multitude of responsibilities. The obvious responsibility is to fight fires, provide structure protection and respond to medical emergencies. Firefighting personnel continue to utilize new forms of technology that improve efficiency, protect life and property and prevent future fires from occurring. Throughout this chapter, we discuss several different types of fire technology, including self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), thermal imaging cameras, fire detection software and communications technology. Managers and administrators working in fire services are no different than police or correctional managers. They must manage existing technology and evaluate new and innovative technology. The technology and equipment used by fire department personnel is critical and in many cases saves lives.
